Labrador 2009

Welcomed Home

2009-07-29T16:23:00.005-04:00

"Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 2 Corinthians 4:1,7.

Paul shares how our ministries are a treasure from God - full of power and our bodies reflect the death and life of Jesus. All of this is so grace will reach more and more people.

In a day when people experience more and more complexity, they seek more isolation. They are separated from their family, leaving a cycle of uncultivated and/or broken relationships, which serve to all of us to seek distance for discretionary time and renewal. With very few visible moral figures in politics or on tv, how we go about our ministries and moral leadership as Christians are crucial. As spiritually seeking as our country is, the church will have to go to where the building is not to spread the Gospel. Sharing the Gospel by counting heads within the walls serves to maintain the Kingdom now - but Christ wants us to build the Kingdom.

As skeptical as people are these days to authority, sharing the Gospel in untraditional ways, sharing out of the authority and power and joy that Christ brings to our hearts; our ministries reflect grace because our leadership leads with grace.

As I mentioned weeks ago, the journey in this Labrador ministry that unfolded was the adventure in seeing how God was already working in the places I was entering, and then how God enabled me to enable them. They were most receptive in the grocery lines, the ballet recital, in homes, on the campgrounds, and out on the land. That is where they were most comfortable seeking solice and reflection of a God that is bigger than them.

I have arrived safely to the arms of my loving husband George, my family, and have been warmly welcomed by many friends. I am most grateful for the food provisions by Calvary Moravian members. I thank you all for your diligence in keeping up with the posts here. I have decided to continue offering here reflections of what I learned from this cross-cultural ministry as they are revealed to me.

Also as I mentioned in prior weeks, I pray for your ministries daily. May we all rejoice and dwell in His Holy Word - filling ourselves with the breath of God, being renewed day by day, giving us overflowing thanksgiving to the glory of God to bountifully share with the world near and far.

love,
glenna

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You are invited to the 1st Friday Prayer Gathering where I will be sharing stories and pictures of this Labrador journey. Bring a small dessert to share if you can.

FRIDAY-August 7th - 7pm at Christ Moravian Church

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MANIFOLD IS OUR LORD!

2009-07-08T12:51:00.000-04:00

Grace and peace in the blessed Name of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! I have nearly completed this task the Lord placed in front of me; what began as a tremendous opportunity through seminary, not realizing that my heart and soul would be changed in immeasurable ways....forever. As my son would say, “I had no clue”. The Psalmist exclaims “O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all”. Everything about this ministry has been laid before us; us meaning all of us. When we wait on Him, He opens His hand, and we are more than satisfied with good. And when He sends forth His Spirit, He renews the very face of the ground.

I asked God to open my eyes so that I may see, and during this brief time in Labrador, the Holy Spirit has opened my heart and mind to countless things. When we become God’s servant and join Him in His presence, being the hands to help; being the voice of comfort; being the presence of love, there is no beginning and no end to how the Holy Spirit can move.

I knew from Day 1 in Labrador, that He did not open all those doors or bring me all that distance, to get sick, to be harmed, or to be plagued with loneliness. I arrived with the boldness of the Gospel and God flung doors wide for me to walk through. THAT was the adventure to this journey. Twice I came desperately close to being crushed by a skidoo, yet He was there before me. As well, I never anticipated sharing the Gospel through radio, tv, schools, huge audience, and the list goes on. Maybe even the most powerful witness to the Labradorans was simply my presence rather than my words. I don’t know.

All I am sure at this point is that I was used. Used! By immersing this ministry in prayer, you enabled Him to move hearts. You enabled me which enabled God in powerful and manifold ways.

Whereever I have gone, the handchimes have brightened peoples lives; schools, churches, community. My hope is that you and the Labradorans have been blessed in as many wondrous ways as I have (and you didn’t have to be buried in 6 ft. of snow). The Labrador land, the humble people that care for it and your obedience and graciousness is a reflection of God’s manifold works, wisdom, and wondrous love.

Accepting the gift of love from the Risen Christ, and sharing that love with others supplies all our needs. God bless you, and see you soon! glenna

"Come And I Will Sing You"

2009-07-01T18:37:00.007-04:00

What language shall I borrow To thank Thee, dearest Friend, for all Thy dying sorrow, Thy pity without end? O make me Thine forever, And should I fainting be, Lord, let me never, never outlive my love to Thee."Clairvaux

We have 17 youth a playing, 16 year-olds a tooting, 15 minute sessions,14 sopranos singing, 13 maids a milking (not really), 12 chimes a ringing, 11 recorders cording, 10 boys for pizza, 9 girls for chicken, 8 notes per octave, 7 hymns rejoicing, 6 drums a drumming, 5 guitars strumming, 4 guest musicians, finally 3 O'Clock!!!!!, 2 parts per canon, and a week at Moravian Music Camp DONE! All is quiet one hour prior to their arrival for their performance and I think on the past 5 days of Moravian teenagers from all over Labrador that converged here for a new outlook in their musicianship. The staff saw kids learn to read music, learn a new brass instrument, compose new songs, celebrate Moravian traditions, create new traditions, make new friends, and basically see their old friends in a new and very talented way. It has also been a phenomenal week working with other staff and students from the Memorial University School of Music.

My time here comes to a close. Six months has flown by and it's time to come home to reflect on the overflow of blessings of this half a year. George has been patient, loving and supportive, and we've had a good time sharing, sometimes as many as 3-4 times a day, our couples devotional that we chose prior to the trip; reading and talking each day. The discussions have been really, really beautiful.

My children, all grown and on their own, are as excited as I am to reunite. It's been a tremendous year for all of us - but what could one expect, as you all know, when sisters and brothers in Christ walk with Him.

I look forward to many things as I travel home tomorrow. I am excited to see each of you again, and am so willing to share this pastoring and musical experience; the handchimes, and the many stories of the Moravians of Labrador that I've heard or experienced. You can either call my home, or the BWM at 773-1732. I can't say thank you enough for your encouragement and support throughout this ministry.

In Him, glenna

Day 170

2009-06-23T18:10:00.008-04:00

As the song sings, "Ask and it shall be given unto you, seek and you shall find, knock and the door shall be opened unto you, Allelu, alleluia!"

It was a morning in December, 4 weeks prior to departing for Labrador, and my journal reads, "Lord, show me the Kingdom of God in Labrador, my heart is open to You". I had no clue what I was asking. This has been 5-3/4 months of wonder after wonder. You can see from the spring thaw how powerful our God is; melting with stunning perfection ocean ice that was 6 or more feet thick in the harbor, once a playground for the Easter Games in April, now a fishing boat thoroughfare for the spring highlight - fishing for the freshest of salmon and trout. Popular meals now are 'fish & brews', smoked salmon, and BBQ fish.

The 2nd Annual Moravian Music Workshop is in its final stages of planning; a waiting list of kids that wish to attend, with faculty and students from Memorial University, and a Labrador folk singer attending, along with myself and one other returning musician. Next week, the church will be filled with the sounds of brass, handchimes, guitars, woodwinds, and percussion and students from all over Labrador.

Happy Valley Moravian had their all-church picnic last week; sixty people attended! This coming Sunday we'll celebrate Canada Day with Holy Communion.

The weather has suddenly mellowed to a couple of days of temperatures over 65 (f). The signature bug [State Bird] has appeared in mass, the giant misquito, but after a long winter, who cares! The days are rather long and bright; the sunlight appearing brightly at 3:45 am and it stays light until close to 11pm.

July 6th is approaching fast for me and for those around here. I'm at a loss for words about that.

As I think of how the above images reflect the grandeur love God has for us, I am reminded how each of us are a reflection of the likeness of Christ. May our reflection be crystal clear; "Called to be salt and light in this world, Called to preserve and to shine, Called to reflect the glory of God - Oh, what a calling is mine! [Fitzhugh].

DAY 152 - God so loves the world.

2009-06-07T14:34:00.006-04:00

Jesub nagligivanga

OKautsit oKarmatta,

Nuttakat illingavut

Tapsoma agganganut.

Kor: Jesusimale

Nagligivanga

Gub oKausingit

Taimak oKarmatta.

Inuktitut words to "Jesus Loves Me, This I Know"

As John 3 says... "the wind blows where it pleases", and that would describe the first week of June in this ministry. I had no sooner told someone I felt like I was in a comfortable grooooove, when the Sprit moves in powerful ways. One way was witnessing beautiful healing right before my eyes; women forgiving themselves for issues in their past - all of which they had no control over at the time. A second was the priviledge of leading worship in Inuktitut. My Inuit friend, Zipora, said "it's time" and I was recently asked to replace the Anglican pastor in worship at the disabled home this afternoon. It was hard! My other friend present at the service when I asked her how it went said "you have to start sometime, and most know the words I was saying anyway", so again - between her grace, and God's grace, many people got to hear the Gospel. Thanks be to God!

I'm known around town as the Moravian pastor on bicycle. People actually stop on the road for a bicyclist and a pastor to cross the street. It has been a tremendous way to 'clear' my head. The Post Office knows me as the one who actually inquired why "guaranteed mail" to the U.S. cost $13., and "not guaranteed" is 50 cents. Huge laughable discussion that day as I told her "she was a witness that I sent it" (for 50 cents).

The Labrador Cup is in town this week - so I'm once again immersed in the game of soccer. It's kind of a mix of indoor soccer and ice hockey - 'checking' is allowed. But the tournament is really about fellowship among people of all the Labrador communities and that is exciting to be a part of. The people here are also golf addicts. I guess it's a short season.

Outside of the plans being laid for the 2nd Annual Moravian Music Workshop coming up, end-of-year picnics and sing-a-longs, youth fundraising for camps, all is calm. One sunny day will bring people out with their flip-flops, shorts, and tank tops on. The temperature may be 35-40, but no worries. I'm wondering if they'll even see a summer this year?

I am most grateful for your intercessions for these people. Many are seeking Christ in a new way, and hearing the living Truth is critical. God be with you till we meet again. Love, glenna

http://link.library.utoronto.ca/inuitmoravian/

2009-05-31T16:36:00.003-04:00

News Flash! This morning the new handchime group played the "Seek Ye First" descant and "Fairest Lord Jesus". . . . and they were directed by one of the ringers, a mother! Please pray for this group as new kids join and that the Lord will lead this young woman to carrying on with the handchimes beyond my visit here.

2009-05-29T19:05:00.015-04:00

"No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and His love is truly in our hearts."

Forgive me for not writing sooner. Spring has finally showed evidence of arriving. The temperature I'm sure was up to 45 (f) today with a warm sun on your face. I've settled into a life here; worship is more exciting than ever with God's leading and a mix of new faces, wanting to see who the new face is in Happy Valley I suspect, but I prefer to think it's the work of the Holy Spirit.

It has been a week of challenge as there were 3 youth from the coast in the hospital for overdose, as well as the death of a dear Inuit servant in the church. She had worked domestically for the missionaries on the coast as a young girl and left school in 4th grade to help her mother raise the other 6 siblings. Her dad attempted to teach her to hunt for the family table, but she always felt that the rabbits she was asked to shoot, looked like they were praying, so she couldn't shoot them. Going home empty-handed meant hunger throughout the evening, so her father waited for the sons to come of age to get hunting assistance.

Keep in mind, that 40-50 years ago, the people lived off the land. Each Innu and Inuit family had their 'own' hunting grounds around their cabin; nothing legal, rather out of honor, respect and survival. An average day for a woman would mean cooking all day; making bread, stewing seal meat and table scraps, bones included, for the sled dogs meal, and making clothing. All parts of the animals hunted were used, if not for the meal, then for clothing, tools, buttons, footwear, or even decoration. The grain bladder on a partridge would make a nice Christmas decoration at the door. Memories of these times are still very fresh in the peoples minds. A pair of sealskin boots would cost $2 forty years ago, where today they're $200. Snow shoes are still a must in hunting. And as I learned, you don't tread to close to the trees, as you will fall to ground level.

The coastal towns have grocery stores. The locally owned store produce section is pictured above. Watermelon is a favorite, but it is quite costly ($3/small slice). These days, the coastal people want for nothing during the winter months. It just means preplanning, some patience, and getting to the store early after the new food arrives by plane.

The pictures are of worship; 1) I was allowed to sing in the Inutitut choir, and 2) Pentecost Sunday serving Holy Communion in a bilingual service. We're wearing the traditional worship silapuk and a cap (white ribbon for a widow, and blue for married). Truly a bless-ed priviledge for me.

As God always desires our unity from the exile period, to Ezekiel, to Pentecost, and to now, may we all come together to welcome the Holy Spirit. Come Holy Spirit Come . . . dwell among these people, bringing them the Hope of Jesus Christ in all His fullness "

love, glenna

how great it is to be a sheep of Jesus!

2009-05-12T16:20:00.004-04:00

Grace and peace in the Name of Our Lord Jesus. Experiencing Makkovik and her people has been a beautiful blessing to me. The strain of leaving here was heavy. Some of the highlights of the ministry included the radio hour, preaching, visiting homes, and sharing music in homes, the school, and in worship.

The community of Makkovik is about the people and the land. That is your life. It is about survival 12 mo. a year - planning for the winter. Hunting, wooding, fishing, repairing, are done out of necessity not pleasure. One man cut down 60 trees. I asked him if he burned that himself, and he said "No-I burn the first 11, and give the rest to my sisters, cousins, uncle, etc. That is what this community is all about - people taking care of each other. They take care of each other's needs extending to food, sewing, making of boots/clothing, traveling escorts for seniors, babysitting, . . . everything.

I'm arrived back into the valley last week and life is quite different with the mts. of snow all but gone - only 4-5 ft. left. The roads are dry. I bike to the Senior home each morning for worship and to play the organ for them during their free time. I get to do Bible Study at the Correctional Center now - hmmm, I wonder if we could do handchimes? The church handchime group began practices immediately!

Worship was really beautiful yesterday. I am continually stunned how God puts all words into my mouth. There is nothing I do good here that hasn't come directly from our Father. I give Him all the credit. Such worshipful beauty. The congregation is a patient flock. They are so loving even when I massacre the Inutitut doxology printed in the bulletin. I love them dearly. It is not easy being a "learner" for 6 months, but I'm trying.

Thank you, from my whole heart for your prayers in this ministry. They are felt each and every day as God lifts me way beyond what I see myself capable of doing. I don't fret over much, as it all seems to unfold before me as I walk. Such a wonder of a time.

I'm getting some exercise so I can give George a big "bury-your-face HUG" when I see him. This journey has been unusual to say the least, but an amazing blessing to both of us and the entire family. May the God of peace, joy, and assurance, abide in each of you as we worship our Easter Lord.

Makkovik - 60 days - and transitioning . . .

2009-04-29T11:53:00.004-04:00

With spring officially here, the week following Easter was almost the "perfect storm" - a series of fronts that moved in to create a week-long heavy blizzard; over a meter of fresh snow with winds gusting above 100 kmh. That was followed by some serious spring weather when the thawing officially began. Large surface cracks in the harbor ice are appearing, snow gets a little slushy, and there seems to be a mad rush of everyone for wood for next winter before skidoo conditions break down completely.

As we do in the spring, the windows are opened to let fresh air in. The only difference here is it's still minus 2 celcius outside, but nontheless, it is refreshing to the soul. Spring signals the end of caribou hunting season, but small game dinners now include arctic hare, goose, cod tongues, and partridge; all delicious. Finally, spring brings the Boil-up; a favorite tradition - to pack some food and drive off to a pond or lake, build a fire, & eat. Sometimes, one will eat what they catch when they drill a hole in the ice (only 4-6 ft now) and drop their line. You can watch the fish swimming by. Quite a wondrous site!

Opportunities to meet people and share in Makkovik have included:

My Moravian Radio Hour on Thursday mornings. People are calling in with questions & lovely comments about the Daily Text study and the music I play - so I know somebody is listening.
Sunday School ages 4-14. The kids are listening to Bible stories, singing & playing handchimes, and working on a crafty service project.
The community band practice - tonite!
Youth drama practice - tonite! They'll present this in worship on Sunday.
Womens Sewing Circle - what a wonderful group of incredibly talented women, and love to sing and pray.
Visitation and home Communion.
Bible studies.
Attending youth rec volleyball.
Hymn sings in peoples' homes, and finally,
Teaching Bible songs with the handchimes to the youth and children in the school.

My heart is a little heavy right now, as God has worked in a mighty way in my heart and soul for the past 4 months. The people of Labrador have been such a blessing to me and it grieves me a bit to move on. Christ is my foundation, my rock, my salvation. I will look forward to moving back to Happy Valley next week as I love all I have met, most dearly. Your prayers have surely sustained me through this time. I can not begin to tell you how thankful I am for your active involvement in this ministry. Thank you for your notes of encouragement as well. Talk soon - love, glenna

Easter Saturday & Monday in Makkovik

2009-04-14T10:41:00.003-04:00

Easter SATURDAY as they call it, begins Makkovik's winter games on the harbor; skidoo races, pulling-by-hand skidoos, running races, 3-legged soccer game, piggy back rides, a barefoot running race across the harbor - and all this takes place on the 10+ ft of ice and snow in the harbor. These people are tough!

Of course they had their annual Easter dog sled race - drawing names out of a hat to see who gets to go as a passenger. I won as a rider, and was joyed to go!

I was given a mountain of appropriate clothing that I needed; 2 coats - one a goosedown, the other a silapuk that is protection from the wind and has the fur that protects your face - long fur gloves with another pair on the inside, a facemask, sunglasses/goggles, 2 prs of socks, my big boots, a hat. I used my thermal handwarmers from the Sunday School class, and of course, all the necessary undergarment layers I typically wear.

I layed on the komatik on a caribou skin; the driver ahead of me sitting up. The skin was absolutely warm. We were in white out conditions yesterday, so they marked the trail for the race w/ pine trees stuck up in the ice. Visibility was 1/4 mile, yet the skill of the driver and the dogs is amazing. I'm sure the driver could cook a meal on the komatik if he wanted to all while the dogs were running.

It's like an extra long sled ride - bumpy at times with the beautiful dogs pulling you; working hard. The dogs listen to his every breath, noise. When the ride is smooth, all you hear is the slide of the komatik. There was a crust on the top of the snow due to the bit of thawing that took place last week.

The race was followed by a lovefeast; simple yet full of unmoveable tradition, as was all of last week.

Interestingly enough, each coastal community is allowed one polar bear a year. Anyone interested in hunting one, has to register w/ the govt., and then they schedule 3 days of hunting for each hunter. if they don't get one, the next hunter gets to try for 3 days & so on. This bear was a young one as is evidenced by his big head, smaller body. The bear was about 9-10 ft. stretched out. The hunter, should he choose to, will get approx. $3,000. for the pelt. Peace.

Holy Week - Easter

2009-04-13T21:48:00.008-04:00

"for Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring us to God. He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit."
Happy Ressurection Day! "May the news of Christ's risenness touch the dead spots in your heart & bring them back to life, so that we all can become part of the good news that flows forth. May the fresh life that God has given you spill over to freshen all the lives that touch yours." May we be Easter people this day and forever!
The most difficult thing I've found in Labrador thus far, was coming up with words for a sermon about the Resurrection. God is raising the dead whereever we share the Gospel. He is alive!Love goes ahead of us to Galilee, where we will see Him, just as He told us.
I fail in trying to convey how moving this past week has been. To have Holy Week services in 2 languages is quite a profound experience. What you might not 'get' in one language, comes forth in the other language. There services were steeped in tradition; a mix of British, old Moravian, and Inuit influence. It is quite humbling to see the smallest children come to the Inuit services and be still and quiet. The Inuit and English choirs sang with intense beauty. Our children's choir ignited the congregation and the special music (archived Inuit selections) were inherently received.
Sunrise service began indoors and moved through the long path of the Moravian Forest (groomed by skidoo) into God's Acre; the daylight coming well before the sun actually emerges. All graves and the fences around the acre, were covered by several feet of snow. The serenity of the entire community at 5:30 am prefaces a festive day of 4 more worship services and alot of food and family.
Please take the time to view the slideshow (to the left). It shares the last 2 weeks of life here in Makkovik - 1) a young polar bear near town; each community on the coast can kill 1/year - a hunter as designated in a drawing, 2) The Sunday School children learning a song, 3) the Easter Dog Sledding race (more on that to come), 4) Easter Games on the harbor ice, 5) two Chapel Servants preparing lovefeat tea, and finally, 6) a couple I met several times with and married. The next blog, I'll describe the opportunity I had to 'ride along' in a dog-sledding race. heh-heh.

Thank you for your active praying in this ministry - your prayers are felt most assuredly and are a vital part of this ministry. I pray for you as well. As each of you have been moved through the readings of Holy Week and Easter services, let us all be transformed into brave, hopeful, loving bearers of good news; full of hope and possibility.

2009-04-06T07:27:00.003-04:00

Ride On! Ride On in Majesty
In lowly pomp ride on to die;
Bow Thy meek head to mortal pain.
Then take, O god, Thy power and reign.

This is a Lent hymn that’s always intrigued me; leading me to a better understanding and the burden for which Our Savior faced head on. Imagine how the religious leaders of the day were seething with anger and mockery as Jesus rode by, surrounded by throngs of cheering voices. A Roman parade of Triumph was one of empty military pomp – Jesus’ conquest was spiritual. His “triumph” would be the victory of LOVE over hatred, TRUTH over error, and LIFE over death.

As Jesus lovingly prayed to His Heavenly Father for us just a short time earlier, bringing petitions of hope, power, forgiveness, the conflict, and the protection; all we need to complete God’s purposes here on earth [John 17], let us ‘ride on’ each day through Holy Week with the purpose of bringing those things to all we encounter daily. Let us ensure that all see the love of Jesus in our lives; a love that transcends all barriers, races, creeds, or color. Ride on, seeking ways to share the same love He showed us; healing and hope to the sick, feeding the hungry, visiting the jailed, and blankets,coats, or shelter to the unprotected.

2009-03-23T09:28:00.005-04:00

Makkovik - Day 80
Makkovik is a quiet-appearing community, buzzing with aboriginal and 'settler' activity under the surface. Because of the isolation from the mainland communities, school children seize opportunities to travel on special trips or competitions of all kinds. Junior Rangers is such a group that teaches life skills and holds special classes that teach the fading aboriginal skills such as boot-making.

Last week brought many opportunities to learn; building a wood stove fire, walking on snowshoes which is most helpful when there's new snow, learning to drive a skidoo on the snow (there's nothing else to drive it on). The handle bars are heated!

But more importantly, visiting those that are shut-in for the winter is the best way to learn about Labrador. They are joyed to have the visit, have experienced, and love to share the vivid stories of the 'old times'. Stories of a single trip up the coast, preparing the seal meals on the stove for the dog teams, or the boarding school stories, will hold one glued to their soft chair by the woodstove.

Here is one story header from Them Days magazine:
"The dogs saw something, and they started barking. One of them grabbed me by the coat right here [at the nape of the neck], almost choked me. I lost all my water, and she brought me home. The other one stayed behind, barking. I didn’t know what was going on. This was a bear!"
- Mary Clark
You can explore more at: http://www.themdays.com/current.html .

Sunday School is growing; 15 children this week. What a joy the kids are. Next week they will sing in worship at 4pm. They have also begun playing the handchimes - a new and beautiful way to express music for them.

This coming week brings the Jamboree; the celebration of all the talent within the community, dotted with the excitement of the Heritage Dogsledding Race; teams coming from all over Canada to compete.

It truly is a marvel to see how resilient the Labradorans are. A teenager here doesn't need a world of technology to find entertainment; they might compete athletically, or go ice fishing or hunting with family or friends. To see the komatiks come back on Sunday full of meat or furs is a common site; enough to fill one's freezer for the remainder of the winter/spring, and alot to share with family and those who can no longer hunt.

It is with complete thankfulness that I share these experiences and reflections with you as your prayers have sustained me. My hope is that this cross-cultural time with our sister Moravian congregations brings you as much enlightenment in your faith walk as mine. "Spirit of truth, and grace, and pow'r, blow through your church, we pray. Tansform us from this very hour in all we do and say." D.Bell

2009-03-18T21:47:00.007-04:00

Makkovik in March & April..... Makkovik is a coastal community northeast of Happy Valley. Travel is by air and by boat in summer. Winter travel is by snowmobile. The community is situated on a sheltered bay in a saddle between two hills. Check the Photo diary for a panorama of the Makkovik harbor. The people are gracious and caring. Life in the winter months is all about staying warm inside and out, and having the right equipment to get the various jobs done; i.e. collecting wood, keeping ice off the roof, making sure one's doorways aren't shut in by drifting snow - meaning shoveling several times a day.

The church and surrounding Moravian land is at one end of town overlooking the harbor. People here are quite talented; knitting, boot-making, sewing, carving, hunting, sporting to name a few. The church, school and community center support the towns' activities year round. Groups of friends and family take off on hunting trips up north for caribou quite regularly. The heards are as large as 10,000. Other hunts include seal, martens, fox.

Community choir begins this week (Thurs) with the hopes of beginning a new handchime group as well. I've been recruiting local musicians for worship music including a cello, guitars, and violins. The jamming sessions have been alot of fun in preparing for worship.

I'll share more as the groups develop. Childrens' Sunday School went beautifully. The kids loved playing the handchimes and the parents will love seeing them in worship. Love, glenna

2009-03-11T09:09:00.003-04:00

How does one thank ones parents for all the efforts, love, pain, and joy they put into you? You thank them by living a life pleasing to them; one that works hard, one that brings them joy, one that shows that you are trying to be the best you can be and that you were paying attention in your life.

How do we thank the One that created us and expends all of His infinite love upon you? How can I live my life pleasing to You this day Holy One? I will work hard, I will bring You joy, I will try to be the best I can be; in my prayers, in my thoughts, in my very words that are uttered out of my mouth. I will bow so low, I will fall to my knees, I will humble myself to You – completely. You complete me Blessed Savior. You move within me Holy Spirit as the wind tosses the snow from peak to peak here. Take my life and let it be – consecrating Lord to Thee. Take my hand and lead me where You need me to go.

As one walks on the streets of Makkovik, some steps will find solid ground beneath your boots – those are the easy steps. On some steps, you will sink several inches - those are the difficult steps. But You always pick me up to move on. I eventually get to my destination. I always arrive feeling so good; stronger. I’ve had time to ponder You on that walk. I’ve had time to see what You’ve created and the beauty that transcends from east to west; from north to south. Not one inch is less than perfect.

Can I strive for anything less as I move/journey through this day? I think not. Why should I try to work through my feeble strength? Lord, I don't deserve one of the blessings and the outpouring of Grace You have showered upon me. My soul just sings for joy, of wonder of You, trusting You on each journey I take today.

2009-03-07T17:24:00.005-05:00

"For hereunto were ye called; because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that ye should follow his steps." 1 Peter 2:21

I thank God for the time I had in Happy Valley. The community has been most gracious and tolerant of a newcomer. What a beautiful and vital community in service to Our Lord.

After 2-1/2 days of waiting on an opening in the weather, I arrived in Makkovik, Labrador after flying over an expanse of mountains and frozen waters inland as well as the ocean. We dropped passengers at the community of Natuashish; one of two Innu communities in Labrador known as caribou hunters. More info, see: http://www.heritage.nf.ca/aboriginal/innu.html , then on to Nain and Hopedale before arriving here; population 380. Makkovik is a quiet & beautiful coastal town relying on skidoo for travel. The harbor is thickly covered in ice and snow and is a playground for the community during the winter. The Moravian church, the only church in town, overlooks the entire harbor. Her doors remain unlocked all the time. Worship is Sunday at 4pm (Atlantic time).

I've met up with several youth from summer camps already. They are looking forward to musical and worship opportunities. The school principal has invited me for 'musical' visits. God is so good! I'll continue to share as time allows and this ministry unfolds. Many, many thanks for your continued prayerful support. Please pray for the youth and their openness to the Gospel through music; choral, handchimes, and instrumental. May their hearts be opened and God's warmth spread throughout the community through them. Gratefully yours, glenna

2009-03-05T09:53:00.005-05:00

The climate of Labrador is unique, a sub-arctic region, one has to love the outdoors to thrive here. The weather patterns especially on the coast seem rather random. What we would consider the worst of weather is just another passing day here or might even be an invitation to go ice fishing, hunting, or snow-shoeing.

The winter months of Labrador, as I may have mentioned before, is a beautiful and ready example of God's creation in its fullness. I think I could be here for the rest of my life and still hardly fathom the gravity of their snowfalls. The phrase "digging oneself out" of their house took on new meaning this week when I dug myself out of what seemed a couple feet of snow so I could get out of the driveway at 6 am to get to the airport. I arrive back at the manse by 9:30 am due to a flight on hold, and had to dig myself IN to get to the front door. In order to worship Wednesday evening, several hrs of shoveling by 2 of us had to take place to enable the church doors to be opened. Snow blowing/moving provides great fellowship - I'm sure that's one of the many reasons people are so close around here.

As hard as I try to at least appear to be realitively acclimatized, I can't avert my newness to these parts to the point of foolishness at times. I was so organized in getting to the airport ontime at 6am, I arrived feeling quite proud. I disembark from my vehicle to the voice of one of the airport personnel saying that I was leaving a trail behind my car. The trail she spoke of was the 35 foot extension cord, strewn out all 35 feet (frozen) behind my car, still plugged into the plug on the front of the car which typically heats the car battery overnight. I had forgotten to unplug me from the house.

At the risk of looking even more foolish, I will share one more event. I was helping a congregation member in show shoveling and soon became exhausted. All I could think of in my love of snow was that it would be nice to just plop myself into the 5 ft of it right next to me and enjoy the moment I thoughtfully remember as a child. This snow is so light & fluffy, it seemed like a good idea at the time. Well, the snow is so light & fluffy, that as I went down, I kept going down..., down to the very icey and hard bottom. To add insult to injury, once I got down there, all the snow that was displaced immediately fell down on top of me engulfing my face and body in snow. There was nothing inspiring about that - in pain, and quite cold and wet. Needless to say, Labradorans didn't need to look for entertainment yesterday, they had it in their midst.

2009-02-23T17:43:00.005-05:00

Christ says, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." John 10:10

Blinding snow storm on Friday & Saturday all over Labrador. The most I got to enjoy it was a snowball conflict with some of the youth. Who do you think threw the first collection of snowflakes? heh-heh

Sunday was our Youth Sunday. Twelve youth from the community came together for the past 3 weeks to create worship for the congregation. When the girls completed the handchime benediction, I was speechless. They had worked hard, learned alot I hope, and the parents supported the kids in a big way, which is sometimes not the case. We needed overflow parking at the pizza parlor! The potluck was a joyful experience and everyone joined in to set-up, eat, and clean-up. Then today, I received a call from someone in the community asking when the youth were going to do their musical drama again. What a blessing these youth were, to me and to all attending. Many many thanks to the leaders; Carl & Laura, Linda & Herman, and Beatrice and Ann Marie.

peace, glenna

Week of February 15th - 21st

2009-02-18T13:11:00.007-05:00

This week -2 days- we've seen temperatures soar way above normal - a stifling 5 degress above zero. I must be acclimating as I shed the snowpants for 3 days..... the 3rd day was a huge mistake as that eveing, walking only 100 feet to the United Church, I literally froze in the 30 below freeze!

Thank you for your continued prayers during this week. I began the week at the Senior Disabled home, bringing them worship, music and conversation. Today is our final youth handchime rehearsal before Lent, and the community chorus rehearsal in which I get to become acquainted with lots of local musicians. Tomorrow I'll get to visit the prisoners at the Labrador Correctional Center for Bible study. These folks come from all over Labrador and I will meet many of their families when I move to the coastal communities. They are in need of special prayers so they can break old habits, establish new healthy ones, and come to know Christ through the volunteers that visit.

Our youth meetings continue to grow and the most recent meetings will culminate in a Youth Celebration in worship. Youth conducting worship here is a totally new concept. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will bring all to true celebration of these young people.
Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Isaiah 35:5

40 Days and 40 Nights!

2009-01-14T15:26:00.008-05:00

"He is before all things, and in him all things hold together." Colossians 1:17

What is so amazing about serving Christ amidst the volumnes of snow, frigid temperatures, and two native cultures [Inue-Indian, Inuit-Eskimo], is God's provision and goodness. There is a long history of the ancestors of today's people here. It is very much a part of their every day life; especially in the winter months.

Labradorans are patient, listening, loving people - with a beautiful spirit and passion for the land. I think this is why snow is so beautiful; it is white and fills one with a sense of God's purity of His creation. When the sun is out, after the dryest of snowfalls, one can identify individual snowflakes sitting one on top of the other; mountains of them. At night, when the moon is out, the shine casts shadows of the trees upon the ground as if by day. I saw a small red fox last week, so perfectly beautiful; burnt red, black shiney legs, little pointed ears full inside with white fluff, and a tail so bushy, it seemed about the size of his entire body. Not to spoil the picture here, but he was sitting at the local coffee house parking lot munching on donuts people threw to him. He was a joy to watch even for the locals.

Preaching has been the greatest of wonders and privileges for me in my life. The Word empowers one as if nothing, NOTHING will stand in its way. It is The Way. Although I spend countless hours preparing, God will have His way in what will be presented on a Sunday morning. I pray that I won't get in His way, but the worship experience leaves me with amazing joy and excitement. Everyone laughs at me that I talk too much on Sunday evening in fellowship (imagine that!). The truth is, I'm so thrilled about having "released" the Good News, that I can't hold it in and go home to begin preparing for the following Sunday's sermon. Enough of me.

HANDCHIMES! What a blessing they have been, to me, to the community, and to the church. We have two groups practicing each week (we're in Week 4). The Brownies of Wednesday evening, are working towards their Music Badge with the chimes. We have 10-12 ringers including the leaders which wouldn't have it any other way. A couple of adults and children from other churches joined the group as well. Thursday evenings we have a smaller group; mostly musicians who rejoice at this opportunity to make beautiful sounds. They are so thrilled, we practice, then play on Sunday, practice something new, and play on Sunday, and on & on. They are a passionate group. One woman in worship, walked up before the service and asked to play with us. Of course I couldn't refuse, and she filled a needed spot with such pride (her son and her mother looking on).

The congregation seems to welcome not only the beauty of the music, but seeing their own members in a brand new way; gifts come alive - gifts of Grace! I am thankful that I can witness these things. Many many thanks to all partners in this ministry. You are faithful and your love is greatly appreciated among all here. Your continued prayers for these people seeking renewal and inspiration from Our Lord. I am only a vessel, relying on you through Christ Our Lord.

May God bless you richly in all things - in your ministries. We are all ministers of hope - the hope of the Cross of Jesus.

glenna

FIRST 8 DAYS - Happy Valley Moravian Church, Happy Valley Goose Bay, Labrador

"Jesus makes my heart rejoice. I am His sheep and know His voice." Whenever one follows Christ as a sheep, they are blest beyond all comprehension. From the first moment of stepping on a plane, to setting foot on Labrador soil, the journey has been a humbling and joyful one. Arriving in Happy Valley Goose Bay in the evening, some Christmas lights still up, the quiet, snowy scene that unfolded driving from the airport to the church reminded me of the choir anthem "Silent Night, Peaceful Night". I was met by some friends who quietly gathered my luggage and brought me home to the manse. The manse was recently rennovated and is so conveniently situated between the Moravian church and .... the grocery store. So I can worship in the sanctuary any hour of the day or night now; one of my favorite places to be.

It's been pretty stormy here; there was a heatwave of 6 degrees (celcius) above zero for a day, but otherwise, the temperature seems to hover around 25 (c) below.

Sunday service was one of total embrace and welcome followed by a wonderful potluck. True to form, the Moravians here love food in abundance; and we saw (and ate) a variety of fish, red berries (alot like cranberries only they grow on the ground), and of course pizza. I introduced the handchimes in worship on Sunday and you could see the eyes light up across the sanctuary. The sign-up sheet filled up immediately and practices begin on the 26th (Jan). Members are also signing up to be lay readers, thanks to Evelyn's wonderful instruction for us at Calvary Moravian. These people are so willing to learn and engage in service opportunities, and I am learning so much about the Inu and Inuktitut culture, the people, worship, and pastoral ministry.

My commissioning as a Lay Pastor in Labrador is coming up on Sunday and the Inutitut Bible Launch is happening for all of Labrador on the 20th right here! I will be here in Happy Valley until early March when I will move to the coast of Labrador. A mailing address for these 2 mos. is: Happy Valley Moravian Church, POBox 220, Station B, Happy Valley, Labrador-New Foundland, Canada A0P1E0

God bless you all for your participation in this ministry through all ways. I may be weathering the frigid temperatures, but I feel your presence, love, and support with every step. I'll keep you posted with frequent updates here as the internet allows, and please know that I am ever thankful for your part in this ministry and that you are in my prayers always as I trek, and fall quite frequently on the ice and mountains of snow.

With the warm love of Jesus,

glenna

2008-12-01T17:09:00.004-05:00

Hello friends and partners in ministry,

This is so exciting to share with you all that the Handchimes have been ordered! At times like this, it is hardly fathomable understanding how God moves; with such precision and perfection. There is enough support to purchase handchime music that will carry this ministry well beyond my presence there. Imagine!.... sharing the Gospel through the gift of handchimes and beautiful music. I believe God has great great things in store - and we did it together.

As this time in Labrador unfolds, I will try to share photos and news as it happens. Meanwhile, you can enjoy this picture of the Labrador Highway. Don't you now wish you could be going with me in January instead of those hotspots like Jamaica?!

with the warm love of Christ,
glenna

Praise the Lord!

2008-11-17T14:07:00.006-05:00

Praise God that we now have eighteen, 18! handchimes purchased for Labrador - Second Mile Project - Ministry. Nine (9) to go. All that comes to mind at this point is... "Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary, Praise Him in His mighty firmament! Praise Him for His mighty deeds; Praise Him according to His surpassing greatness!!"

Thank you all for your participation and giving.

With the love of Christ,

glenna

Picasa Web Albums - glenna

2008-08-27T13:33:00.000-04:00

Picasa Web Albums - glenna